Monday, 25 January 2016

ox pasture hall, scarborough.

Set in the photogenic Scarborough countryside, Ox Pasture Hall is a luxury Yorkshire hotel and Michelin recommended restaurant serving inspiring modern dishes, created from locally sourced ingredients. The general philosophy behind the menu is traditional Yorkshire food at its best, and I couldn't wait to get stuck in. We were also invited to stay in one of their premium suites, which boasted comfort mixed with the contemporary.

I instantly fell in love with the surrounding countryside and stone buildings. Stunning views and beautifully landscaped gardens were met with quaint seating areas and gazebos. This really would be a fantastic wedding venue, especially in the Summer.

Shown to our courtyard bedroom, which were all named after Yorkshire places, we soon settled in to our cosy surroundings. Lots of check prints and wooden furniture gave a countryside feel, whilst chandeliers and plush linen on the king size bed added touches of luxury.

The spacious bathroom came complete with bath, rainforest shower and "his and her" sinks, all with large tiling and modern finishes. The deep bath was just the ticket after my long drive - although I was surprised to see no bubble bath or salts. Instead I used the bath and shower gel, which was replenished, but I think this would have made the perfect touch. Especially as there were cotton buds and wool in a cute little jar, they had thought of almost everything!

There were fluffy robes and thick towels to help ourselves too - even better for getting cosy in chilly January. The floor did flood a little upon using the shower, which was a shame as we used more towels mopping it up. We did let the staff know this, who were always happy to help during our stay.

After a chill out and pamper, it was time for dinner. Greeted in the courtyard restaurant, we were ushered to a cosy seating area and invited to browse through the menus over a glass of fizz. there was a prompt and attentive service, which also felt very relaxed and never rushed. You would almost want to arrived half an hour before you eat so you can enjoy perusing the menu without feeling hungry and eager get to a table.

When we'd made our menu choices, we were shown to our table where the rest of the Galanti Proessco was waiting, along with the amuse bouche and some delightful fresh bread.

This was made up of a creamy goat's cheese, which was slightly blue, with an orange segment and marmalade. It's combinations like this that almost turn me around to the idea of fruit and savoury. Just almost.

Sam went for duck salad to start whilst I chose the scallops. the duck was laced with truffle oil and met with dried berries and boozy cherries. The favourite element here was easily the delightfully rich pate, however he felt the pulled duck would have been even better if slightly warm.

My scallops were beautifully cooked with a very slight char. They came with a smooth and slightly sweet pea purée, deep black pudding and crispy bacon. This was probably the crispiest bacon I've ever eaten and I could barely pick it up with my fork, however the texture complemented the soft scallops.

I went for the lamb main whilst my other half went for his favourite - rib eye steak which had been aged with Himalayan salt. We ordered a couple of glasses of red, Merlot for me and Malbec for Sam, which came in perfect timing. As you can see, my mouthwatering lamb just fell apart at the touch of a fork. Pops of pickled onion made for a nice texture and tartness, along with a melt away mashed potato and fresh, crunchy greens.

The well rested steak served medium was well received too, although Sam felt it lacked much marbled fat you often get with rib eye. I guess this is just random depending on the slice of meat. The chips were fluffy inside and the tomato was very rich, almost like it had been roasted with balsamic. Unusually it didn't come with any kind of sauce, and we both agreed a strong and creamy peppercorn would have been the icing on the cake.

We had a slight intermission of pina colada sorbet before getting stuck into our desserts...

I say dessert - of course Sam went for the cheeseboard! This was a spread of Shropshire Blue, Brie and Wensleydale. It came with a mix of original and charcoal crackers, which were the ideal base for the strong cheeses on offer. I went for my second favourite (after Bakewell) of sticky toffee pudding. This STP had all the winning elements of the ultimate pud - which a naughty, thick sauce and iced double cream to accompany.

Before long it was morning and we were seated at the same table for breakfast. we even got up early as we were driving to Manchester. For a Sunday this is rare - are you proud of me?

With a choice of full English or veggie English on offer, we both ordered the meat version with our favourite eggs. I like when breakfast is made to order as even if they have all the elements hiding ready in the kitchen, it just makes it extra special. Mine was glorious with a super runny yolk - just how I like it. The pastries and fruit were great too, however I think smoked salmon or kippers on the menu would have topped it for me.

Full to the brim and well rested, off we went to Manchester to continue our Northern adventure. Have you ever been to Ox Pasture Hall? What is your favourite restaurant or hotel in North East Yorkshire?

We were invited as guests of Ox Pasture Hall. All opinions honest and my own.